In anticipation of National Secure Your Load Day on June 6, Louisiana officials, including Governor Billy Nungesser and the organization Keep Louisiana Beautiful, are urging drivers to ensure their cargo is properly secured. This initiative highlights the dangers of unsecured loads, which contribute to roadside litter and pose significant risks to motorists.
Governor Nungesser emphasized that littering, whether intentional or accidental, is illegal in Louisiana. He noted that any item that falls from a vehicle becomes a potential hazard on the road. “Unsecured loads put every driver on the road at risk, and that’s something we can prevent,” he stated.
Susan Russell, Executive Director of Keep Louisiana Beautiful, pointed out that these incidents are entirely preventable with the use of tarps, ropes, and tie-down straps. She also advised motorists to keep a trash bag in their vehicles for proper waste disposal.
Preventing Roadside Hazards
According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, road debris causes over 800 deaths and 19,000 injuries annually, with a significant portion of these incidents involving unsecured loads on passenger vehicles. To combat this, officials recommend several safety measures:
- Tie cargo down with rope, netting, or straps.
- Secure large objects directly to the vehicle or trailer.
- Cover the entire load with a sturdy tarp or netting.
- Avoid overloading the vehicle or trailer.
- Double-check the load before driving.
Residents are encouraged to report roadside littering to the Keep Louisiana Beautiful Litter Hotline at 855-LA-Litter or online at KeepLouisianaBeautiful.org. Reports should include the license plate information, vehicle make, and location of the incident.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
